News

ShelterBox appoints new chief executive

ShelterBox has announced that Alison Wallace will take over as its new chief executive from 15 April 2013.

Alison, a law and commerce graduate from New Zealand, who joins ShelterBox from Amnesty International has over fifteen years’ experience in the UK and international not-for-profit sectors.

She worked for nearly seven years as director of international fundraising at the International Secretariat of Amnesty International. She has particular expertise in fundraising growth strategies, having delivered Amnesty International’s first global fundraising strategy in 2010, and recently re-launched a global major donor fundraising programme.

In addition to her extensive marketing and fundraising experience, Alison has worked for both Amnesty International and Friends of the Earth and been a long serving member of the Board of Trustees of the Camden Society, which provides services to people with learning disabilities.

Alison said: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity to lead ShelterBox and its dedicated team of staff and volunteers on the next stage of its growth, and to bring shelter, warmth and dignity to more people more quickly in times of crisis.

"I firmly believe that shelter, and the dignity it brings in the hours and days after a major disaster, is key to families and communities re-building their lives as soon as possible. I am also looking forward to working with ShelterBox’s international affiliates to spread the ShelterBox message and increase our capacity to reach more people.”

Chairman of ShelterBox, Dr Rob John OBE said: “The Board of Trustees of ShelterBox were looking for an outstanding leader who possessed a track record in fundraising and strategy development relevant to our very special charity.”

“I am delighted that Alison has accepted our invitation to take ShelterBox forward as our Chief Executive. She is an excellent communicator and team player and we welcome her most warmly into our ShelterBox family.”

• An employment tribunal is scheduled to take place shortly regarding ShelterBox’s former Chief Executive, Tom Henderson OBE.